Richard Everett Dick Gudgel

Richard Everett Dick Gudgel, 81, Lapel, passed away Tuesday, February 22, 2011, at Rawlins House in Pendleton following a courageous battle.
He was born on September 18, 1929, in Anderson, Indiana to Everett and Mary (Cox) Gudgel.
He graduated from Anderson High School in 1948, and joined the U. S. Air Force in 1949 and spent two tours of duty during the Korean War serving in New Mexico, Alaska, and Illinois.
Dick retired from the former Delco Remy Division of General Motors as a U. A. W. Local 662 benefits representative after over 40 years of employment. As a representative, he helped countless employees in their time of need. He also worked at the Noblesville Walmart to occupy his time during his retirement years.
He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church for 54 years and regularly attended Steven's Church of God when visiting his daughter in Wise, VA; former board member of the Anderson American Red Cross; former member of the Anderson Police Merit Board; a charter member of the Madison County Civil Defence; member of U. A. W. Local 662 following his father who was a charter member; member of the Lapel American Legion Post 212 where he was past commander and service officer; member of the veteran's organization 40 & 8 in Anderson; member of Noblesville Eagles and a charter member of the Lapel Eagles Aerie 4313; served as an officer of the Anderson Lincoln Club, a republican support organization; and a former Boy Scouts of America Scout Master in Lapel; and a lifetime member of the Humane Society. He was a Sepcial Olympics host for over 20 years; had served as a congressional aide to former congressmen Bud Hillis and had judged local high school scholarship essays on patriotism for many years. He had also served as Stony Creek Township Assessor and took pride in helping the township trustee distribute surplus food to those in need.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mildred "Mid" Gudgel, three children, Doug Jarrett of Anderson, Stephen (wife, Cheryl) Gudgel of Anderson, and Pam (husband, Roger) Lawson of Wise, VA; one sister, Betty Jo (husband, Norman) Sanders of Spring Hill, FL (formerly of Middletown); five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and a special niece, LeAnn McKissack.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Joyce Rinker and Susie Shaw.
A funeral service will be held at 1:00 pm Friday, February 25, 2011, at Scott E. Hersberger Funeral Home in Lapel with Pastor Doug Barton officiating. Burial will follow in Brookside Cemetery, Lapel where the Lapel American Legion Post 212 will conduct military graveside rites.
Visitation will be from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm Thursday, February 24, 2011, at Scott E. Hersberger Funeral Home, 1010 North Main Street, Lapel.
Memorial contributions may be made to American Red Cross, 914 Chase Street, Anderson, IN 46016-1335.

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